1943 was a long time ago, and life was different in Avondale back then. Avondale (also known as Coldwater) was an unincorporated area, and the population was less than 2000 people. At the time, it didn’t have a High School. Litchfield Park High School had been founded in 1928, and it didn’t move to Avondale (and change it’s name to Agua Fria) until 1956. A gallon of gas cost about 15 cents, a new car could be had for about $900, and a house could be rented for about $40 per month.
The USA, of course, was still embroiled in World War Two. The Pentagon had just been completed in Washington. The latest movie was Lassie Come Home, and Glenn Miller and Frank Sinatra were the hottest musicians.
Early in 1943, on the corner of Western and Central in Avondale, just west of downtown, a tent was erected and a four week long revival was held under the leadership of some Phoenix churches. At the end of the revival, an organizational meeting was held for what would become our church. They decided to begin worship services immediately, and the first worship service of what was known as First Baptist Church was held on Sunday, March 7, 1943. They purchased a corner lot and erected a simple frame building by September of that year.
We’ve moved twice since then, expanded our ministries many times, and changed our name. We’ve had some great times and some real obstacles in the 69 years since we opened our doors, but God blessed the vision of those first members and FSBCA is now a strong and vibrant church with over 500 in attendance on a typical Sunday. There are only a handful of people left from that era–most of them have gone home to be with the Lord or have moved away–but I thank God that they were men and women of vision who wanted to start something that would last well beyond their own lifetimes.
Let’s pray that our current generations of leaders and members are just as committed to God and to the leaving a legacy that will last for generations. Our work makes a difference today, and it also sets the stage for even greater work in the future.
Happy Birthday, FSBCA!
By Pastor Jack Marslender ·